Yesterday, Governor Larry Hogan announced a new initiative focused on "promoting Maryland's outstanding seafood to domestic and international travelers." The Maryland Crab & Oyster Trail, which kicks off this month in celebration of National Seafood Month, features a virtual tour highlighting more than 100 of the state’s seafood restaurants, as well as seafood festivals held throughout the state during October.
“Maryland has a proud history of harvesting some of the world’s best seafood from the Chesapeake Bay, and this trail gives us a great opportunity to highlight our great state as a destination for seafood lovers,” said Governor Hogan. “Residents and visitors alike can plan a trip to the more than 100 destinations serving freshly harvested crabs and oysters, as well as the many seafood festivals taking place this month.” The trail map is divided into five regional excursions. More than 100 markers denote restaurants across the state that serve steamed crabs, soft shell crabs, and fresh local oysters. The trail also features attractions that showcase the state’s heritage and history in connection with the seafood of the Chesapeake Bay and watershed.
Regions
Eastern Shore: Maryland’s Eastern Shore is known for its traditional watermen culture, where locals rise with the sun and work the waters to bring in the day’s catch, bringing you fresh crabs from dock to table. Central Maryland: Central Maryland is an oyster lover’s paradise, with oyster bars, oyster roasts, and seafood festivals galore. It offers big city excitement and also small town charm and grace, with crab shacks accessible by both water and land. Capital Region: Surrounding the nation’s capital, you’ll find waterfront seafood restaurants on the wide and lazy Potomac River. Further inland explore a culinary paradise in the city of Frederick. Southern Maryland: Nestled between the Potomac and Patuxent rivers and the Chesapeake Bay, Southern Maryland abounds with quintessential crab houses and wharves that echo traditions from yesteryear. Escape from nearby metropolitan areas to relax with the tides in Southern Maryland. Western Maryland: For the best of both worlds from the mountains to the sea, head west for a scenic drive or hike, and end your day with a traditional Maryland crab feast.
Festivals
Seafood fans can also get their fill at a number of festivals taking place during the month, including the Community Crab Feast at Wilmer Park in Chestertown and the Oyster Stroll in Westminster, both on October 14; Tilghman Island Day on Tilghman Island on October 21; the U.S. Oyster Festival in Leonardtown taking place October 21-22; and OysterFest at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels on October 28.
Share
Visitors are encouraged to share their Maryland seafood experiences on social media using the hashtags #VisitMaryland and #MDinFocus. Learn more at visitmaryland.org.